Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena declared that The Ministry of Tea premises in Galle is a great opportunity to boost the country’s tea industry and export sector.
He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the sales outlet of tea products called Ministry of Tea arranged for the high quality Sri Lankan tea producers in Galle on Saturday.
“The tea industry is a particularly profitable sector for our country. Our tea industry brought the name ‘Ceylon Tea’ to the world. It is true that there are other types of tea in the world today. ‘Ceylon Tea’ has a unique taste and people from all over the world are enjoying it. Not only is the export sector, but the tea industry itself also being transformed today,” the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the centre may play a pivotal role in helping our business sector overcome various challenges. “Galle first fell into the hands of the Portuguese and later, the Dutch built the Galle Fort. The Dutch or are inhabitants of the Netherlands built and preserved the Galle Fort with great commitment and interest,” the Prime Minister said.
“The Government as well as the private sector came forward to develop various types of plantations including tea, rubber and coconut in Galle city. In addition to coffee, tea is also in demand. There are many restaurants around the world that only demand for Ceylon Tea. Therefore, this centre will continue to provide a big boost to the industry. It is an honour for our country that Ceylon Tea is in great demand around the world and can be obtained from such a centre for people looking for novel experiences in tea flavours,” the Prime Minister said.
“Since Galle is a tourist destination, our message travels all over the world. This creative endeavour taken for the promotion of the tea industry in our country, its marketing and international exposure should be highly appreciated,” the Prime Minister commented.
The event that was held at the invitation of Plantation Industry Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana was attended by Southern Province Governor Willy Gamage, Members of Parliament Sampath Athukorala, Isuru Dodangoda, Yadamini Gunawardena and the Ministry Secretary and officials.
